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Get to know the kidney and its important functions for the body

You need to know the kidney and its functions, so that you understand more about this one organ. Kidney function is vital and its task is heavy because it processes various poisons, making it susceptible to interference. Kidney disorders can range from kidney stones to kidney failure which is very dangerous. That is why maintaining kidney health is very important, moreover, humans can experience kidney function loss of up to 90%, without experiencing any symptoms.

Unique Shape and Important Function of Kidney

Kidney has a unique shape like a bean, which is located behind the abdominal cavity. There are two organs, namely the right and left kidneys. Each kidney has a size of about 10-12 cm or as big as a fist. The kidneys have parts such as the cortex, medulla, veins, arteries, renal pelvis, calix, ureter, and other parts that are no less important. The function of the kidneys is mainly to filter blood and remove impurities from metabolism, produce urine, and balance bodily fluids. Within a day, the blood in our body passes through the kidneys several times. The following are the complete kidney functions:

  • Regulates acidic substances

    • The food we eat can increase acid production in the body. The body's metabolism also produces acids. The kidneys then help the body neutralize these acids, while creating a balanced acid condition in the body.

  • Regulate blood pressure

    • When blood pressure is too low, the kidneys will try to increase it by producing a protein called angiotensin. This method is also the body's effort to maintain water and sodium levels. The kidneys do this because these organs need stable pressure to filter the blood.

  • Regulates red blood cells

    • The kidneys also play a role in regulating blood cells. The body needs red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. If the kidneys lack oxygen, these organs ask for the help of the hormone erythropoietin, which will stimulate the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.

  • Balance the fluid content and regulate disposal

    • The kidneys are tasked with balancing the fluid levels in the body throughout the day. So, if the body lacks fluids, the kidneys keep the body from releasing fluids. Meanwhile, if there is excess salt, toxins and other waste in the body, it will be processed by the liver and passed on to the kidneys, then ready to be removed from the body with urine.

Risk of Kidney Disorders

So heavy the task of the kidneys, so that this one organ is often affected by interference. Here are some common kidney disorders:
  • Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis), which is when minerals crystallize so that they can interfere with urine flow. Kidney stones that are not too big can come out with urine, but if the size is large enough, it needs a doctor's action to overcome them.
  • Nephrotic syndrome, which is damage to the kidneys, so that the protein can be wasted through urine, generally characterized by edema or swelling in the face and legs.
  • Pyelonephritis, which is inflammation of the kidneys / pelvis that is caused by the spread of bacteria to the kidneys from an untreated bladder infection.
  • Glomerulonephritis, which is inflammation or damage to the kidneys due to attacks from the overactive immune system.
  • Polycystic kidney disease, which is a genetic kidney disorder that can form cysts in the kidneys and affect its function.
  • Kidney failure, which is deteriorating kidney function due to kidney damage, urinary obstruction, or lack of fluids.
In addition, there are still many types of kidney disorders that may occur. It is important to understand the kidney and its functions, so you better understand and realize how important it is to maintain kidney health.

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